The Lakers are continuing their search for a starting-caliber forward and have set their sights on Jonathan Kuminga. The Atlanta Hawks reportedly appear open to making a deal, with Jarred Vanderbilt viewed as the centerpiece of the return.
According to Khobi Price of the California Post, the Hawks are open to a sign-and-trade, sending Kuminga to the Lakers for Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick swap. Although a deal isn’t close yet, this proposal shows how the Lakers are thinking about the rest of the offseason. It also highlights their goal of making the roster more flexible.
Kuminga’s Value
The Lakers have reportedly offered Kuminga a two-year, $20 million contract, but so far, that hasn’t been enough to get him to sign. A sign-and-trade could change things. Instead of being held back by their current salary cap, the Lakers would have more freedom to offer Kuminga a longer, better contract that better reflects his value.
Kuminga is only 22 and is still one of the most interesting young forwards on the market. His stats have fluctuated, but his athleticism, size, and defensive skills make him a good long-term prospect for teams.
Kuminga would help fill a major need for the Lakers. He can guard several positions, run the floor, and add more athleticism next to Luka Doncic and Walker Kessler. On offense, Luka’s playmaking could make Kuminga’s job easier. He would just need to focus on cutting, finishing at the rim, and taking advantage of mismatches.
The Lakers are also hoping that giving Kuminga a bigger role and a clear system could help him reach another level. He has shown signs of being a solid two-way starter, but hasn’t put it all together for a full season yet. If the team thinks he can still grow, getting him now could be a smart long-term move, even if it costs a lot.
Moving on From Vando
Jarred Vanderbilt is still one of the team’s top perimeter defenders. But his ineptitude on the offensive end has kept him off the floor. With about $25 million guaranteed over the next two years, many around the league now see his contract as a negative asset.
If the Lakers can trade that contract and bring in a younger player with potential, they would achieve two goals. They’d free up future salary space and fill a key need on the wing.
Worth the Price?
The biggest hurdle might not be Vanderbilt. Instead, it could be the Lakers having to include their 2032 first-round pick swap.
After trading for Walker Kessler, the Lakers have used up almost all of their tradable first-round picks. The 2032 swap is now their only first-round asset remaining for trades this offseason, making it very valuable.
The Lakers have to decide if Kuminga’s potential is worth giving up one of their last big trade assets. Getting a young starting forward would help the roster, but losing that flexibility could hurt if another star becomes available later.
For Rob Pelinka, the job isn’t just about finding talent anymore. Now, it’s about making the most of every asset the team has left. If the Lakers think Kuminga can be a long-term starter with Luka Dončić and Walker Kessler, the cost might be worth it. If not, holding onto their last big trade asset could be the smarter choice.
